The debate discusses whether our behaviour is caused exclusively by external factors (i.e. determinism) or an individual chooses to behave in a particular way (i.e. has free will)
(AO1) Definitions
Determinism = the general idea that traits and behaviours are outside of our control, due to factors either internal/external over which we have no control
Free will = the idea that people can make decisions free from determining factors, in which their choices are their own.
(AO1) Give x3 examples of determinism
Ex 1: Biological - The idea that traits/behaviour are governed by internal biological factors like genes, neurochemistry, brain structure and function. Biology is destiny. E.g. Dabbs.
Ex 2: Environmental - The idea that traits/behaviours are governed by external forces such as experiences, upbringing, learning, schools, parents, peers. E.g. responding to stimulus, being triggered by environmental stimuli as if you were an animal.
Ex 3: Psychic - The idea that traits/behaviours are governed by unconscious instincts & drives, in which the caused of the behaviour is rooted in childhoodexperiences. E.g. relationship w/ mom in childhood.
(AO1) Define hard & soft determinism
Ex 4: Hard - traits/behaviours are entirely out of the individual's control. Has significant consequences for how we function as a society.
Ex 5: Soft - traits/behaviours determined by external or internal forces, but an individual can still exercise some control e.g. vis thought processes.
(AO3) Strength - biological determinism - supported by dabbs
Point: Biological determinism well supported.
Evidence: dabbs et al = provided evidence for role of hormones in behaviour. Found high testosterone levels in men convicted of domestic violence. High testosterone may resulted from prison environment and violence.
Evaluate: Therefore, endocrine system may not fully explain their behaviour. The men’s free choice influenced their decision to commit the crime separately from their hormone levels.
(AO3) Limitation - deterministic approach - personal responsibility + case study
Point: Deterministic approach takes away personal responsibility from the individual for their behaviour.
Evidence: E.g. If behaviour determined by outside forces, provides potential excuse for criminal acts. Case study = in 1981, StephenMobely argued he was ‘borntokill’ after killing pizzashopmanager, because family had disposition towards violence and aggressive behaviour. An US court rejected this argument.
Evaluate: However, we need an emphasis for freewill if society is to function affectively.
(AO1) Strength - Debate link to SZ
Point: The debate is relevant when explaining SZ.
Evidence: Deterministic explanation like genetics (high concordance) and neural factors (ventricle size, dopamine) suggests SZ behaviour biologically determined. This influences treatment, such as anti-psychotics.
Evaluate: Deterministic views support effective treatment. However, they may ignore the role of social contexts - limiting, not complete understanding of the disorder.